We prefer to band them when they are young. No more than 2 months old. The only thing to worry about is to make sure both nuts are in the sack before you band the calf. We've never had any other problems with this method. Heather

 

We prefer to band them when they are young. No more than 2 months old. The only thing to worry about is to make sure both nuts are in the sack before you band the calf. We've never had any other problems with this method. Heather

Ditto.

 

I band at the time I eartag the calf usually 3 hours to 2 days. Very little stress. I have also banded up to 800 pounds. Some vets recommend a tetanus shot, which I do as I have had tetanus in lambs and hogs.

 

Bands at my place, banded at least 100 animals by now and never a problem...Topside

 

Bands applied when the calves are less than a week old. No problems but you have to be able to count to two. Ear tags give far more problems than bands. I buy the bands in packs of 100 for about $2. Store the unused ones in the freezer and they seem to last. I have banded 100's of calves.

 

ok great, my tenderhearted son will be thrilled to hear all this...is there one brand over another that you prefer? the calf is three days old today....and he will get an ear tag at the same time...now to find a close person to perhaps assist for the first banding...thanks...

 

Green ones are all I've ever seen. Size of a cherrio, doubt it's as tasty though.

 

Green ones are all I've ever seen. Size of a cherrio, doubt it's as tasty though.

Kind of funny you mention that one topside. I seem to have a faint memory of a few months ago asking my daughter's would-be suitor if he had any idea what a green cheerio was and what their uses were. Being raised on a farm, he knew exactly what I was talking about and treated her with respect! lol!:clap:

 

Awww the power of the cherrio, to funny.

 

Never banded cattle, too easy to miss one. Always used a knife, no doubts that way. We did band sheep tho.

 

I have shared this in the past but will post again. For those that want things to go right but have no experience with banding I suggest the following. Obtain a piece of flexible plastic that is about the size of a playing card and thicker than a credit card. Using a 3/8 inch drill bit drill a hole in the center of the plastic. Then cut a 3/8 wide slot going to the hole. With the calf caught put the calf on its back. Using the plastic fixture carefully slide the plastic between the belly and the scrotum. Count to two to see that you have the jewels isolated and on the upper side of the plastic. Get your banding tool and put it in position and slide the band off the banding tool fingers. You should now have the band in the proper location. Always verify that everything is correct before turning the calf loose. If it is not correct cut the band and redo the sequence. On a new born calf you may have to work things around until you get both jewels on the upper side of the plastic fixture. Once they are there they will stay as they cannot retract through the 3/8 inch slot. Band first and ear tag second. You will get a lot more reaction from ear tagging.

 

yup, i use the green cherrios!

 

HAHA, I also use the Cheerio (green bands) with the little silver banding hand tool. I have done several calves and baby goats with it. I find its the easiest way. Best for all involved. No blood, no cutting (which is how I much prefer it, and I believe if you asked the animal he/she would say the same thing).
I place the band all the way up close to the base of the "pouch" and feel to make sure BOTH "marbles" are dropped below the band line then I release the tool.
I do it all as quickly as possible, for all involved.

I believe it cost me about $12. for the tool and it came with 2 starter bands. Then I bought a bag of 100 for about $2.
quite cheap, if you ask me.

 

thank you for all your replies, we now have a steer out there with his momma...has anyone ever had any problems with infection?

 

No infection with the bands. Yes with ear tags.